13 Essential DIY Skills Most People Don’t Have Anymore
In today’s world of quick fixes and easy replacements, many traditional DIY skills have fallen by the wayside. There was a time when knowing how to fix things around the house was common knowledge, passed down from generation to generation. But as our lives have become busier and technology more complex, we’ve lost touch with some of these basic abilities.
This list explores some of the essential DIY skills that were once widespread but are now rare. These are practical abilities that can save time, money, and frustration when things go wrong at home. While we can’t all be experts in everything, having a basic understanding of these skills can be incredibly useful. Let’s take a look at some of the handy talents that have become less common in recent years.
Basic Sewing
Many people today can’t even sew on a button. Knowing how to make simple repairs to clothing can extend the life of your wardrobe. It’s not just about fixing holes or reattaching buttons – basic sewing skills can help you alter clothes for a better fit or even create simple items from scratch.
Changing A Tire
With roadside assistance just a phone call away, many drivers never learn this essential skill. But knowing how to change a tire can be a real lifesaver if you get a flat in an area with no cell service. It’s not as hard as it looks, and it can get you back on the road quickly in an emergency.
Basic Car Maintenance
Beyond changing tires, many people don’t know how to do simple car upkeep. Checking and changing oil, replacing air filters, or even just knowing how to check tire pressure are skills that can keep your car running smoothly. These tasks can save you money on mechanic visits and help you spot potential problems early.
Cooking From Scratch
With the rise of pre-packaged meals and food delivery services, cooking from basic ingredients is becoming a lost art. But knowing how to whip up a meal from scratch is not only healthier, it’s often cheaper too. It allows you to control what goes into your food and can be a fun, creative outlet.
Basic Plumbing
Calling a plumber for every clogged drain or leaky faucet can get expensive. Learning how to use a plunger effectively, replace a washer, or even just shut off your water main are simple skills that can save you a lot of hassle and money. These basic fixes often don’t require special tools or expertise.
Grow Your Own Food
Even if it’s just a few herbs on your windowsill, growing your own food is a valuable skill. Many people have lost touch with where their food comes from. Gardening, even on a small scale, can provide fresh produce and a sense of satisfaction. It’s also a great way to ensure you’re eating pesticide-free veggies.
Basic Home Repairs
Knowing how to patch a hole in drywall, fix a squeaky door, or recaulk your bathtub can save you from calling in professionals for minor issues. These skills aren’t hard to learn and can keep your home in good shape. Plus, there’s a real sense of accomplishment in fixing things yourself.
Knot Tying
From securing loads to your car to setting up a tent, knowing a few basic knots can be surprisingly useful. Different knots serve different purposes, and knowing which one to use can make tasks easier and safer. It’s a simple skill that comes in handy more often than you might think.
Sharpening Knives
Dull knives are not only frustrating to use, they’re also more dangerous. Many people throw away perfectly good knives because they don’t know how to sharpen them. Learning to use a whetstone or even a basic knife sharpener can keep your kitchen tools in top shape for years.
Basic First Aid
While not strictly a DIY skill, knowing basic first aid is crucial. Many people don’t know how to properly clean a wound, perform the Heimlich maneuver, or do CPR. These skills can literally save lives in an emergency situation. It’s worth taking a class or at least watching some tutorials online.
Mending Furniture
A wobbly chair or a scratched table doesn’t always need to be replaced. Basic furniture repair skills like tightening joints, fixing small breaks, or refinishing surfaces can extend the life of your furniture. It’s often simpler than you might think and can save you from buying new pieces.
Reading A Map
With GPS on our phones, many of us have forgotten how to read a physical map. But what happens when your battery dies or you’re out of service range? Understanding how to read a map and use a compass are valuable skills, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.
Budgeting And Basic Accounting
While not a traditional “hands-on” skill, knowing how to budget effectively is a crucial DIY ability for managing your finances. Many people struggle with keeping track of expenses, planning for the future, or understanding basic financial concepts. These skills can have a huge impact on your financial health and stability.
15 Basic Skills Kids Aren’t Learning in School Anymore
